Falkland Islands tours & travel

The picturesque Falklands are the last point of human settlement before the unforgiving realm of the Arctic Circle.

It's an archipelago complete with snowy mountains, rocky crags and green plains. Though its population is that of a small country town, the Falkland Islands are home to a myriad of birdlife who migrate and nest on its shores. Seals and orca hunt in its waters and sheep speckle the hilly landscape. Falkland Islands are the charming seaside village of the south.

Falkland Islands travel highlights

Enjoy the quaint setting of the town of Stanley on The Falkl

The port city still has a lively fisherman community and a distinct love of beer. After a long day of sightseeing, pour yourself a pint at the local pub.

Falkland Islands holiday information

Falkland Islands facts

Falkland Islands facts

Local culture of Falkland Islands

Local culture of Falkland Islands

Falkland Islands has a contested history, with the British and Argentinians both laying claim to the islands. Today, most of the population is descended from Welsh and Scottish settlers and are considered citizens of Great Britain. There is something of a Hispanic influence on the culture and history as the islands were once occupied by the gauchos, or ‘cowboys’ of Patagonia. Today, people work mainly in the fishing, wool and emerging coal industries.

Geography & environment

Geography & environment

The Falkland Islands, located south west of Argentina in the South Pacific, are made up of almost 800 islands. The two main islands, West and East Falkland, are mostly mountainous and craggy terrain, with some low-lying territory and plains. The hundreds of smaller islands are either privately owned or occupied solely by migratory birds. With its proximity to the South Pole, and its isolation in the Pacific Ocean, the island is windy, rainy and often covered in fine snow.

Shopping guide to Falkland Islands

Shopping guide to Falkland Islands

You might like to take a bit of your Falkland Island holiday home with you by purchasing some of the local products. Gift shops sell handmade items like felt clothing and woollies made from the local sheep, and leather items produced on the islands. Pebbles and semi-precious stones are made into jewellery, and the local art revolves around the spectacular landscape. Other goods include craft made from driftwood and collectable stamps and coins.

Falkland Islands festival calendar

Falkland Islands festival calendar

New Year’s Eve

The favourite holiday of the locals, New Years Eve is a time when people have parties and drink up at the pub. Fireworks displays are organized around the Islands which look magnificent beside a backdrop of sea, sand and sky.

Liberation Day

The mostly British Falkland Islanders celebrate this day as it marks their freedom from Argentinian occupation. A memorial is held to honour the lives that were lost in the struggle, as well as a military parade and ceremony near the Liberation Monument.

Falkland Day

Once an event for the discover of Falkland Islands by explorer John Davis, Falkland Day is now a seasonal occasion marking the return of wildlife. Elephant seals and black-browed albatross settle on the island at this time every year to breed and nest.

Food & drink in Falkland Islands

Food & drink in Falkland Islands

With fishing and farming a big part of life, home-style cooking is much-loved in the Falklands. Locals value fresh organic meat and produce, with livestock raised on the land and vegetables free of modification. Classic British ‘fish n chips’ is just as famous and well-loved down here, as are meals made with lamb and mutton. Locals break up their day with afternoon tea, cake and biscuits.

Tipping isn’t common practice in the Falkland Islands, however you may choose to leave a small tip if you feel particularly pleased with the service. In these cases, about 5% of the bill should do, or simply rounding up your fare.

Tipping isn’t common practice in the Falkland Islands, however you may choose to leave a small tip if you feel particularly pleased with the service. In these cases, about 5% of the bill should do, or simply rounding up your fare.

Tap water is safe to drink in Falkland Islands. For environmental reasons, avoid buying bottled water and bring a bottle or canteen with you. Ask your leader where you can access filters to refill your supply, or carry your own purification tablets with you.